Google Pixel's December Update: A Software Revolution
Ah, the sweet scent of hardware launches in Google's rearview mirror! Now, the tech giant turns its attention to software enhancements, and there's no shortage of goodies on the way for Pixel 8 Pro owners (sorry, Pixel 8). Get ready for features like Gemini Nano, Video Boost, Night Sight video, and more!
Let's dive in!
Gemini Nano on Pixel 8 Pro
Google's dropped its latest AI creation, Gemini, during the week. And guess what? The tiniest, most efficient Gemini Nano variant will be available for Pixel 8 Pro users in December!
Gemini Nano brings several exciting features to Pixel 8 Pro, including:
- New Summarization Feature: Enjoy lightning-fast summaries of your audio recordings, even without an internet connection, thanks to processing on the device itself.
- Smart Replies in Gboard: Google’s AI models step up the game, providing suggested responses to conversations based on context, using conversation recognition technology.
Get a taste of the future with Smart Replies in WhatsApp, as additional apps will be supported in the new year.
Video Boost and Night Sight Video on Pixel 8 Pro
Google's October hardware event saw the presentation of Video Boost, a feature exclusive to Pixel 8 Pro. This powerful technology uploads your video to the cloud and uses Google's computer photography models to adjust elements like lighting, color, stabilization, and graininess for a more authentic look.
Video Boost also introduces Night Sight Video, a smart AI feature that reduces noise in nighttime or poorly lit video recordings.
Pixel 8 Pro and Pixel 8 users also get their hands on the Time-Lapse Night Sight feature, allowing you to capture stunning videos during nighttime and poor lighting conditions. Perfect for capturing the night sky or vibrant cityscapes under the cover of darkness.
Camera Upgrades
The December update brings several camera upgrades for Pixel. Google is introducing a new AI model to improve portrait lighting in Google Photos, which can eliminate harsh shadows for optimal portrait photos. Portrait focusing is also enhanced to sharpen images of pets and humans.
Fold Pixel users can now enable Dual-Screen View in the camera app, meaning your camera preview is displayed on the external screen while taking a photo. Additionally, your Pixel 6 or newer, along with the Pixel Fold, can now be used as a webcam. Plug your device into your computer and select the Webcam option under USB settings.
And the Clean-Up feature is here to save the day when scanning documents. The Clean feature removes dust, smudges, and creases from scanned documents, rendering them cleaner and clearer.
Repair Mode
Need your Pixel device repaired? The new Repair Mode will protect your apps and personal data while in the repair shop. With the Repair Mode activated, you'll be required to enter the security code you set before. Keep in mind that Google recommends strengthening your security code for added protection. Once you're done with the repair, your phone's access and data will return to normal.
Smarter Answers on Call Screening
If you're a fan of Call Screening on Pixel phones, get ready for an upgrade in December. In addition to spam call filtering, your device will now deliver context-driven replies, such as confirming or rescheduling appointments based on the caller. This feature will also be available on the Pixel Watch.
Use your Pixel Watch to unlock your phone with a connected Bluetooth connection, which means no more fingerprint scanners or facial recognition when you need quick access to your device.
Smaller Features
Last but not least, some smaller yet highly beneficial additions are coming to Pixel users. For example, Tablet Pixel owners get Clearing Calling support for video calls, along with a more detailed and accessible weather experience in the Uhr app. Google Password Manager now recognizes supported keys for easier access to password-protected accounts.
If you have a first-generation Pixel Watch, look forward to features like the synchronized "Please Do Not Disturb" and sleep modes, new watch face designs like "Adventure" and "Analog Arc", and updated watch face complications like "Bow" and refreshed candle designs.
Who's Getting December Feature Drops?
The December 2023 Feature Drops are now available for several Pixel devices, including Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 8, Pixel Fold, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7, Pixel 7a, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6, Pixel 5a 5G, and Pixel Tablet. However, not all December Feature Drop features will be available on all Pixel devices.
Source: (Content taken from the article's label elements)
Enrichment Data:
There seems to be a discrepancy in the timeframe of the article and the provided sources. The information provided in the sources refers to updates and features introduced in February 2025, not December 2023. Here's a look at the key features and updates mentioned for the February 2025 update:
- Android 15 Update: This update brings enhanced reading controls, allowing users to manage punctuations and symbols, as well as an improved “Read from next” feature. Additionally, it features a Private Space, which is a secure area for storing sensitive apps like banking or social media with additional authentication layers. The Theft Detection Lock uses AI to automatically lock the phone if it detects suspicious movement, while the Remote Lock feature allows users to quickly lock their phone's screen from any phone if it was lost or stolen. Passkey Simplification is also included for easier and more reliable access to accounts. Health Connect Updates expand support for various data types, including skin temperature tracking, and structured training plans for fitness goals.
- Pixel Weather Updates: The Pixel Weather app is now available on a wider range of phones, including the Pixel 6, Pixel 7, and Pixel 8, with a more detailed and accessible weather experience.
- Bug Fixes and Performance Improvements: The January 2025 update specifically addresses a bug in the December 2024 Pixel Feature Drop that caused dark mode icons to appear lighter than intended, along with other bug fixes and performance improvements for audio, camera, and display.
